My Current Tomato Obsession

Pan con Tomate, and Why the Simplest Things Are Sometimes the Best

What Is Pan con Tomate?
Pan con tomate is a simple Spanish tomato bread made with ripe tomatoes, crusty bread, garlic, olive oil and salt. Allison Cobb makes her version by grating very ripe tomatoes on a box grater, lightly straining the pulp and saving the tomato juice. She toasts hearty bread with olive oil, rubs the warm bread with fresh garlic and tops it with the seasoned grated tomatoes, good olive oil and flaky salt. Manchego cheese, Serrano ham or prosciutto can be added for a more substantial version.

By Allison Cobb | The Cobb Group

I have a tomato problem this time of year.

Not a bad problem. Quite the opposite. I just can’t seem to…

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The Tomato Pie That Tells You Summer Isn't Over Yet

 
Why heirloom tomatoes, Bluffton's farmers markets, and one unforgettable pie capture everything we love about late summer in the Lowcountry.

Late summer is heirloom tomato season in the South, and it's one of the best times to explore Bluffton and Hilton Head Island's local farmers markets. In this story, Allison Cobb shares why heirloom tomato pie has become one of her favorite seasonal traditions, where to find beautiful local tomatoes, and how everyday moments like these capture the spirit of Lowcountry living.

By Allison Cobb | The Cobb Group 

There comes a point every August when you realize summer is beginning to change.

Not because the weather has cooled—it certainly…

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The Fourth of July We All Remember Still Exists—You'll Find It in Bluffton and Hilton Head

Looking for the best Fourth of July traditions in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island? As America celebrates its 250th birthday, Bluffton and Hilton Head offer the perfect blend of small-town traditions, golf cart parades, waterfront fireworks, family gatherings, beach days, boating, and community celebrations. This guide includes local insights from Allison Cobb, award-winning Bluffton Realtor and leader of The Cobb Group, along with The Cobb Group's America 250 Playlist featuring classic Americana, patriotic favorites, and summer songs perfect for Independence Day 2026.

By Allison Cobb | The Cobb Group | eXp Luxury Realty

Fourth of July Traditions in…

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What If George Washington Visited Bluffton Today?

Did George Washington ever visit Bluffton, South Carolina? What did Bluffton and Hilton Head Island look like during the Revolutionary War?

George Washington visited South Carolina during his Southern Tour of 1791 and spent significant time in Charleston. There is no record of Washington visiting present-day Bluffton or Hilton Head Island. During the Revolutionary War era, Bluffton had not yet been established, and Hilton Head Island consisted largely of marshes, maritime forests, plantations, rivers, and undeveloped coastline. Many of the natural features that define the Lowcountry today—including the May River, tidal marshes, and live oaks—remain remarkably unchanged.

By Allison Cobb | The Cobb…

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What a Forgotten Founding Father Can Teach Us About the American Dream in Bluffton & Hilton Head Island, SC

Who was James Wilson?
James Wilson was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, a key architect of the U.S. Constitution, and one of the nation's first Supreme Court justices. His belief that governmental power comes from the people helped shape American democracy.

Why is James Wilson called a forgotten Founding Father?
Despite his significant contributions, Wilson's later financial troubles overshadowed his accomplishments, causing his legacy to fade compared to figures like Washington, Jefferson, Franklin, and Hamilton.

What is America's 250th Anniversary?
America's Semiquincentennial celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of…

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The One Summer Recipe That Never Comes Home: Allison Cobb's Easy Lowcountry Shrimp Pasta Salad

What is Allison Cobb's Easy Lowcountry Shrimp Pasta Salad?

Allison Cobb's Easy Lowcountry Shrimp Pasta Salad is a simple summer recipe made with shrimp, rotini pasta, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, and a lemon-Dijon dressing. It's a popular choice for Fourth of July celebrations, summer cookouts, boat days, pool parties, and family gatherings throughout Bluffton and Hilton Head Island.

Why is this shrimp pasta salad popular for summer entertaining?

The recipe is easy to prepare ahead of time, travels well, serves a crowd, and tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator. Its fresh ingredients and light dressing make it ideal…

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What Most Parents Don't Know About Beaufort County Schools (Until They Live Here)

What should families know about Beaufort County schools before moving to Bluffton or Hilton Head Island?
Beaufort County offers 32 public schools, school choice opportunities, STEM programs, arts programs, career and technical education pathways, dual enrollment opportunities, and the internationally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme at Hilton Head Island High School. Families relocating to Bluffton and Hilton Head Island often discover that educational opportunities are more diverse and flexible than expected, making it possible to find the right fit for a student's interests, strengths, and future goals.

By Allison Cobb | The Cobb Group 

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The Porch Is Where the Lowcountry Happens | Bluffton & Hilton Head Island’s Summer Magic

Why do people love living in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island?
People love Bluffton and Hilton Head Island for the relaxed Lowcountry lifestyle, outdoor living, marsh views, beaches, golf communities, and strong sense of community. Many residents are drawn to the slower pace, natural beauty, and year-round porch and outdoor culture.

Why are porches important in Lowcountry homes?
Porches are central to Lowcountry architecture and lifestyle. They provide outdoor gathering spaces where families relax, entertain, enjoy marsh breezes, and connect with nature throughout much of the year.

What makes the Lowcountry lifestyle unique?
The Lowcountry lifestyle is defined by…

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What to Wear to the RBC Heritage (Without Looking Like You Tried Too Hard)

Hilton Head Island Style Guide 2026

What should you wear to the RBC Heritage golf tournament on Hilton Head Island?
Wear comfortable, breathable, and stylish spring outfits with a polished but relaxed coastal feel. Think sundresses, polos, linen, sneakers, and sandals. Prioritize comfort for walking, sun protection, and light layers. Effortless always wins at the RBC Heritage.

By Allison Cobb | The Cobb Group | eXp Luxury Realty

Let’s just say this upfront—because this is where people get it wrong…

The RBC Heritage is not your average golf tournament.

It’s part sporting event, part social scene, part fashion moment—and part “how did I end up walking 12,000…

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Living in Moss Creek Hilton Head Island | Insider Guide from Bluffton & Hilton Head Realtor Allison Cobb

Is Moss Creek a good place to live near Hilton Head Island?
Yes. Moss Creek is widely considered one of the most desirable private residential communities near Hilton Head Island. Located just before the bridge to the island and minutes from Bluffton, the community offers two championship golf courses, a deep-water marina, equestrian facilities, tennis and pickleball, and miles of preserved nature trails. With approximately 1,040 homes and limited inventory, Moss Creek combines lifestyle, natural beauty, and long-term real estate value. Many buyers searching for gated communities near Hilton Head Island ultimately choose Moss Creek for its amenities,…

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